When this happens to a child, it is referred to as “pediatric vestibular dysfunction”.

Children that suffer from this issue experience a vast array of symptoms.Dizziness, gaze instability, balance complications, motor function problems, and even delayed development.

Practitioners that may diagnose this condition must complete competency training in the field of vestibular rehabilitation.

“The love of children inspires an interest in the welfare of all humanity….” – James Lendall Basford

Incidence of Vestibular Complications in Children

The vestibular system of the body enables the ability to balance and aids in the overall stabilization of visual-based images when moving the head.

Those that experience disruptions within this system often experience a sensation of spinning, clumsiness, issues with balance, and even problems when reading.

According to a recent study, it is believed that 1 out of every 5 kids in the United States alone suffers from problems with balance or dizziness. However, only about 36% seek medical attention.

The Causes

While balance and dizziness may seem like simple and common issues, as parents reach out to practitioners, they are starting to discover that there are more serious underlying causes to these issues.

Vestibular problems are commonly associated with the peripheral nervous system and/or the central nervous system.

The symptoms associated with the dysfunction vary based on the originating source of the issue.

For example, if the problem is within the peripheral nervous system, an inner ear symptom may be evident. If the problem is within the central nervous system, a headache or a problem with the spine may be evident.

Pediatric Vestibular Therapy activities are plentiful. Here are a few.

The Pediatric Vestibular Rehabilitation Course

If you would like to make a difference in the lives of children and their families, make arrangements to participate in the pediatric vestibular rehabilitation course.

You will learn many new references and treatments that may positively impact the motor skills, coordination, balance, and overall development of a child. You will learn how to aid in the pediatric assessment of special skills – such as tolerance of motion, ocular motor skills, motor development, and the integration of reflexes.

The treatment techniques, demonstrations, and lab practice will be included in the course.

While designed to review pediatric vestibular disorders, the content may be applied to adult sufferers, as well.

Basic Information

Class will be held at The University of Colorado Health Sciences Library located at the Anschutz Medical Campus.

Participants may park in the “Patient and Visitor Parking” area, as well as the area where parking meters.

Margot Gray PT, DPT will be speaking at the event. She is a pediatric physical therapist at the Children’s Hospital Colorado. She is an intricate part of the Balance Disorders Clinic and is highly specialized in vestibular disorders.